Introduction
Importing drilling-grade bentonite is not just a procurement decision — it directly affects well stability, mud performance, viscosity, fluid loss, and overall drilling efficiency. When you choose the right Indian supplier, especially from the mineral-rich region of Kutch, you secure consistent API-compliant quality, competitive pricing, and reliable port access (Mundra/Kandla).
This detailed guide explains exactly how to import API 13A drilling-grade bentonite from India, covering specifications, sampling strategy, documentation, logistics, supplier verification, contract structure, and on-arrival QC.
This is a must-read playbook for drilling contractors, mud service companies, oilfield chemical buyers, and procurement teams working in upstream oil & gas.
Minimum API Acceptance Specifications (Drilling Bentonite)
To qualify as true API-grade (API 13A), the material should match these numbers:
- Yield: ≥ 90 bbl/ton (good material: 90–120 bbl/ton)
- Marsh Funnel: ~30–45 sec
- FANN 600 rpm: ≥ 30 cP
- Gel Strength (10s/10min): 8–12 lb/100 ft²
- API Fluid Loss (30 min): ≤ 15 ml (API limit)
- Residue >75 µm: ≤ 4%
- Moisture at dispatch: ≤ 13%
Always request lab printouts showing these exact test values.
Step-by-Step: How to Import Drilling-Grade Bentonite from India
1) Start with a Technical RFQ (Not a Price Inquiry)
A proper RFQ must include:
- API grade required (API 13A Section 9 or Section 11)
- Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
- Third-party lab report (SGS/Intertek)
- Montmorillonite % or Index
- Swell Index (ASTM D5890)
- Sieve residue results
- Yield in bbl/ton at specific solids
State clearly that shipments failing the TDS will be rejected.
2) Request Technical Samples (25–50 kg)
This quantity lets you run full API tests:
Tests you must run:
- Marsh Funnel
- FANN (600 & 300 rpm)
- Gel Strength
- API Fluid Loss (30 min)
- Sieve Analysis (>75 µm)
- Moisture
- Swell Index (ASTM D5890)
Acceptance criteria:
- Fluid loss ≤15 ml
- Yield ≥90 bbl/ton
- Residue ≤4%
3) Vet the Supplier (Critical Step)
Only accept suppliers who provide:
- API 13A-compliant TDS with test methods
- SGS/Intertek third-party certificate
- Official factory address & IEC number
- Willingness for pre-shipment inspection
If anyone claims API Grade but avoids testing — reject immediately.
4) Use Safe Payment Terms for First Orders
Recommended structure:
- Option A: 100 percent Irrevocable LC at sight
- Option B: 30 percent advance + 70 percent against B/L copy
For repeated shipments, DP or open account is possible once trust is built.
PI must include:
- Grade
- Lot numbers
- TDS
- Packaging
- Incoterm
- Inspection clause
5) Choose Moisture-Safe Packaging
Best export packaging options:
- 25/50 kg HDPE bags with inner liner
- 1–1.2 MT FIBC jumbo bags with liner
- Bulk container liners
A 20 ft container typically loads around 25 MT of bagged bentonite.
6) Conduct Pre-Shipment Inspection
Mandatory checks:
- Factory TDS
- Third-party lab analysis
- Moisture test during loading
- Photographic evidence of packing
- Liner confirmation
Include a contractual clause that allows rejection based on arrival QC.
7) Export Documentation Required from Indian Supplier
You must receive:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Shipping Bill / Bill of Export
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
- Certificate of Origin
- Test Certificates / TDS / SGS
- SDS (Safety Data Sheet)
Indian exporters must have a valid IEC and LUT/Bond for GST-free exports.
8) Confirm HS Code & Import Duties
For processed/ground bentonite:
HS Code / HSN: 2508.10
Check your country’s import duty, permit needs, or chemical registration rules before placing a PO.
9) Plan Logistics Through the Right Port
From Kutch, the fastest export gateways are:
- Mundra Port
- Kandla Port
Choose carriers familiar with:
- dry bulk minerals
- handling bentonite
- monsoon-season moisture risks
Proximity to ports reduces inland freight and demurrage.
10) On-Arrival Quality Control
Within 48–72 hours of container arrival, check:
- Moisture
- Sieve residue
- FANN readings
- API fluid loss
Use an independent lab for verification.
Keep a 5–10 percent payment holdback until QC is approved.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying “API grade” without TDS or lab certificates
- Ignoring residue and moisture levels
- Weak payment and inspection terms
- Using poor-quality packaging during monsoon shipments
Why Kutch (India) Is the Best Source for Drilling Bentonite
Kutch produces globally demanded high-yield sodium bentonite and has direct access to western ports. Reputable mining companies offer:
- API-compliant TDS
- Third-party testing
- Reliable inland logistics
- Export-grade packaging
- Lot traceability
Ask for montmorillonite %, CEC, free swell values, and yield methodology.
Need a Ready-to-Use Procurement Pack?
If you’re a drilling contractor or oilfield buyer, you can request:
- API 13A TDS
- SGS/Intertek test reports
- 25 kg sample
- CIF price quote for your destination
📩 DM to request a sample
📧 exposts@elitemining.in
💬 WhatsApp: https://wa.me/919033400122
🌐 www.elitemining.in